Keeping your hearing aids away from pets is very important for two reasons: 1. Hearing aids are a significant investment in money and time, and 2. Hearing aid batteries are toxic to pets. Below are some tips for keeping your hearing aids stored safely away from your furry friends.
Use a Hearing Aid Storage Case
Most hearing aids come with a protective case so you can keep them safe in your purse, pocket, bag or drawer until you need them next. Rechargeable devices in particular come with charging cases that are perfect for helping you keep track of your devices while also providing a charge so you can continue using them. If you for some reason never received or lost the storage case for your devices, it’s imperative to replace it as soon as possible.
Whether you have a pet or not, a storage case keeps your devices together in the same place and protected from the elements. Even if your pet does get ahold of the storage case, the chance of them getting it open or damaging what’s inside is much slimmer than if the devices are out in the open.
Consider Storage Location
People without pets can keep their hearing aids anywhere that is cool, dry and safe, such as on the nightstand readily available for when they wake up or near the front door as a reminder to put them on before leaving the house. However, people with pets need to take extra precaution of where to place their devices, even if they’re in a storage case.
It may seem like a bathroom counter or high windowsill would be a good place for a hearing aid wearing pet owner, but that is not the case. Bathrooms are warm and humid, and hearing aids can be easily knocked into the toilet or sink. Windows are also not a good option because direct sunlight can damage the devices.
Instead, you can opt to store your devices in a nightstand drawer, jewelry box, sock drawer or on a tall dresser/shelf to make sure your pets stay away from them.
In Case of Emergency
If your pet does get ahold of your devices, there are some important steps to take. First, identify the level of damage of your devices. If they are simply damp from slobber or from getting knocked into a sink, wipe them off and place them in a dehumidifier. If there is visible damage, take them to an audiologist.
If your pet has eaten a battery or other part of a hearing aid, call your veterinarian right away. Do not get angry or punish your dog, as this will only confuse and possibly traumatize them. Remember that hearing aids can be replaced, but your best friend cannot.
For more information about proper storage for your devices, call San Diego Hearing Center today.